The No.1 player in the world rankings had a very solid 4-under 68 to finish his first round two shots behind the leader, Rory McIlroy, who had a 66 on Thursday. Scott's round was aided by an eagle at the par-5 fifth hole. The 34-year-old Australian will be tough to beat this week with his superb driving, his touch with the long putter and his experience in this tournament.

Stenson's poor grade is mostly a reflection of the lack of composure and perspective he showed at the 17th hole on Thursday, when he snapped the shaft of his wedge over his knee after a poor shot from the high fescue. He bogeyed that hole and birdied the par-5 18th for an even-par 72. As a seasoned veteran and the winner of both the Race to Dubai and the FedEx Cup playoffs in 2013, he should show more patience and professionalism.